Brad Cox: First Mission ‘Had a Great Morning’ At Pimlico | 2023 Preakness Stakes News

Trainer Brad Cox said Wednesday that Godolphin’s First Mission is doing very well at Pimlico Race Course in the days leading up to Saturday’s 148^th Preakness Stakes (G1). 

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The Lexington (G3) winner went to the track for some routine exercise.  

“We had a great morning,” Cox said. “He galloped a little further today than yesterday but was every bit as good as yesterday.”

First Mission drew the outside post in the field of eight for the Middle Jewel of the Triple Crown and is 5-2 on the morning line. Cox said with a long run to the first turn, draw positions are overrated.

Luis Saez rode the colt in the Lexington and has the Preakness mount, his fourth start in the race. His best finish was in 2018 when he and Bravazo were second to Justify.

First Mission will be Godolphin’s first Preakness starter since Worldly Manner was 12^th in 1999.